In a move that has stunned fans and pundits alike, Kevin De Bruyne’s Man City career is officially coming to an end. After a decade of brilliance in the sky blue shirt, the legendary Belgian midfielder will leave Manchester City this summer—not by choice, but by club decision, according to manager Pep Guardiola.
💬 What Happened?
On Friday, Kevin De Bruyne announced that he would be leaving Manchester City as a free agent at the end of the 2024/25 season. The 33-year-old, who joined City in 2015, leaves behind a glittering legacy that includes six Premier League titles, a Champions League crown, and 16 major trophies overall.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – JANUARY 13: Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester City at St. James Park on January 13, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Despite questions throughout the season regarding a potential contract extension, talks never materialized. Guardiola has now revealed that the club chose not to offer De Bruyne a new deal, citing strategic planning and the midfielder’s recent injury struggles.
🗣️ What Pep Guardiola Said
“The decision has been made for the club, and the club is the club,” Guardiola told reporters. “Me, Txiki [Begiristain], and the board — it was our call. It was not easy for me to tell him it won’t continue.”
Guardiola acknowledged the emotional weight of the decision, praising Kevin De Bruyne’s dedication during his ten seasons at Man City:
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – JUNE 10: Pep Guardiola embraces Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City after they are substituted off during the UEFA Champions League 2022/23 final match between FC Internazionale and Manchester City FC at Ataturk Olympic Stadium on June 10, 2023 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
“The last year and a half, he was out injured because he gave everything for the club. Everything he had in his body and mind—he’s done it. There’s no doubt about his legacy here.”
🔎 What’s Next for De Bruyne?
With no official destination yet, Kevin De Bruyne is now one of the most sought-after free agents in world football. The Belgian has attracted interest from Saudi Pro League clubs, Major League Soccer (MLS), and several top European sides still monitoring his fitness and availability.
🧠 Kevin De Bruyne’s Man City Legacy in Numbers:
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 21: Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City celebrates whilst wearing their Premier League Winners Medal following the Premier League match between Manchester City and Chelsea FC at Etihad Stadium on May 21, 2023 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
Appearances: 382
Goals: 102
Assists: 166 (Club record)
Trophies: 16
Premier League Titles: 6
Champions League Titles: 1
📌 Final Word
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – JUNE 10: Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City celebrates with the UEFA Champions League trophy after the team’s victory during the UEFA Champions League 2022/23 final match between FC Internazionale and Manchester City FC at Ataturk Olympic Stadium on June 10, 2023 in Istanbul, Turkey. (Photo by Michael Regan – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
The end of Kevin De Bruyne’s Man City journey marks the end of an era for the Premier League champions. Known for his vision, passing range, and big-game performances, De Bruyne will forever be remembered as one of the greatest midfielders to ever play in England.
As City look to the future, fans will hope the club can fill the creative void left behind, while the football world watches closely to see where Kevin De Bruyne plays next.